2016 Buick Verano Safety Report
2016 Buick Verano: Excellent Crash Ratings Mask Persistent Airbag Sensor and Powertrain Reliability Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Buick Verano
Reliability Score
The 2016 Buick Verano receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Buick Verano
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Buick Verano:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbag Sensor Malfunctions Frequent reports of 'Service Air Bag' warnings, passenger presence sensor failures, and side detection system corrosion leading to disabled airbags and warning lights. Some issues were subject to GM Special Coverage Adjustments. |
High | Common | 40000-80000 miles |
| Transmission Failure (6t40) Major transmission failure, often involving the 6T40 6-speed transmission, leading to loss of drivability. Owners report premature failure, sometimes as early as 100,000 miles. |
High | Occasional | 100000-120000 miles |
| Engine Oil Consumption/Stalling Engine issues including bad piston rings, poor emission ventilation, extreme engine pressure, and oil consumption leading to stalling without warning lights. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Fuel Line Contact (Turbocharged) Recall for fuel line potentially contacting the engine, causing wear, fuel leaks, and increased fire risk in 2.0L turbocharged models. |
High | Rare | new miles |
| Ignition Key Removal In Non-Park Recall for electronic park lock lever allowing ignition key removal without transmission in PARK, increasing rollaway risk. |
High | Rare | new miles |
| Side Detection System Corrosion Side detection modules corroding due to water exposure, leading to loss of blind spot warnings, turn signals, and other gauge functions. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Fuel Sending Unit Failure Fuel level sensor failure causing inaccurate fuel gauge readings, leading to unexpected loss of power and control due to no fuel. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Buick Verano:
Frequent issues with airbag warning lights, passenger presence sensors, and side detection system failures.
Reports of transmission failure, particularly the 6T40 model, at relatively low mileage.
Concerns about engine oil consumption, piston ring issues, and stalling.
Issues like doors locking/unlocking independently, radio failure, and side detection module corrosion.
Problems with fuel sending unit failure leading to inaccurate fuel gauge and potential stalling.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Buick Verano
Is the 2016 Buick Verano safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Buick Verano received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side; 4-star rollover). However, owner complaints highlight significant safety concerns, particularly with airbag sensor malfunctions (11 complaints), powertrain issues (3 complaints), and engine problems (3 complaints). There are also two recalls addressing fire risk from a fuel line and rollaway risk from ignition key removal.
What are common problems with the 2016 Buick Verano?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Buick Verano are related to the AIR BAGS system (11 complaints), often involving sensor failures and warning lights. Other common problems include POWER TRAIN issues like transmission failure (3 complaints) and ENGINE problems such as oil consumption and stalling (3 complaints). Fuel sending unit failures and side detection system corrosion are also noted.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Buick Verano?
Yes, the 2016 Buick Verano has two recalls. One recall (NHTSA ID: 16V383000) addresses a potential fuel line contact issue in 2.0L turbocharged engines, which could lead to a fuel leak and fire. The second recall (NHTSA ID: 16V643000) concerns an electrical system flaw where the ignition key can be removed without the transmission being in PARK, increasing the risk of vehicle rollaway.
How reliable is the 2016 Buick Verano's transmission?
NHTSA complaints indicate that the 2016 Buick Verano's transmission, specifically the 6T40 model, has reliability concerns. Several owners reported major transmission failures, some as early as 100,000-117,000 miles, with technicians noting it's a known issue in various GM vehicles using this transmission.
What should I know about the airbags in the 2016 Buick Verano?
The airbags are a significant area of concern, with 11 complaints. Owners frequently report 'Service Air Bag' warnings, passenger presence sensor malfunctions (sometimes leading to the airbag being off with a passenger present), and side detection system failures due to corrosion. Some of these issues were subject to GM Special Coverage Adjustments, but not all owners received notification or coverage.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite excellent crash test ratings, be aware of documented issues with airbag sensors, transmission reliability, and engine problems. Thoroughly inspect service records and consider an independent pre-purchase inspection focusing on these known weaknesses.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Buick Verano
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Buick Verano. The data includes 58 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Buick Verano an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.